Embarking on the world of sushi for the first time can be intimidating. Thankfully, the pros at Benihana have provided an easy, peasy five-step guide for sushi rookies, covering everything from sake to sashimi, with a few helpful reminders for sushi pros, too.
- Sip sake as an aperitif.
Enjoy it either hot or cold; it is completely up to your preference. When it comes to sake, it’s all good.
- Move on to miso soup.
Miso soup is delicious blend of miso, green onion and tofu. Served hot, miso soup opens up the senses and enables your palate to fully take in the flavors of the upcoming sashimi and sushi courses.
- Eat sashimi first
A frequent mistake newcomers, and even the well-practiced eaters, make is beginning their course with full sushi rolls. Rice expands quickly in the stomach, filling you up faster. Sashimi highlights the fish and is a lighter and more traditional dish that eases you in to the full sushi experience.
- Then, enjoy sushi rolls.
The most common misconception about sushi is that it is unsafe because is it all “just raw fish.” All sushi-intended fish must be carefully and specifically prepared in a controlled environment to be considered sushi grade. Not all sushi is raw, either, as you can find cooked rolls, too.
- Always eat your ginger.
Eat a bit of ginger as you switch between sushi types. Not only does it provide some serious health benefits, but it cleanses your palate between different kinds of sushi.
